In Indianapolis, Stephen Holder writes the "hugs and backslaps" between Colts coach Chuck Pagano and GM Ryan Grigson on Monday night “undoubtedly sent an important message.” They “signaled an intent by the parties to work together in a way” that Pagano and Grigson “have not always done.” There had been reports about a “dysfunctional working relationship between Pagano and Grigson.” It was a “very real issue, perhaps worse than those stories depicted.” Both men “did things or made decisions that were influenced by their feud.” If Pagano and Grigson are “truly moving forward, then these issues will one day be distant memories.” Both men must “move forward if they want to stick around for the long term” (INDIANAPOLIS STAR, 1/7).
STUCK IN THE MIDDLE: In Detroit, Drew Sharp writes the longer the Lions' search goes for a new GM, the “more likely the new architect of football operations might get stuck” with coach Jim Caldwell for “at least one more season.” Sharp: “The boldest move would be firing Caldwell after two seasons even though he sports a winning record as Lions coach. … It would serve as a definitive statement that mediocrity masquerading as progress is no longer tolerated in this franchise." But that also would “involve giving the new general manager the power to make the head coaching decision without any ownership interference." Sharp: "Does anyone really think that’s happening?” (DETROIT FREE PRESS, 1/7).
PAYING THE BILLS: In Buffalo, Bucky Gleason writes under the header, “Job Security’s A Mirage For Whaley And Ryan.” Buffalo fans had “grown accustomed to owners caring more about finances than wins and losses,” and the Bills “rarely spent to the cap” when under late Owner Ralph Wilson. However, current Owners Terry and Kim Pegula “operate in a different manner.” People “trying to make sense of their decisions need to alter their thinking, too, and toss conventional wisdom to the side.” GM Doug Whaley and coach Rex Ryan “aren’t necessarily safe solely because they have time left on their deals.” If changes “are needed, ownership is prepared to write checks” (BUFFALO NEWS, 1/7).
NEVER A DULL MOMENT: ESPN’s Tony Kornheiser noted speculation has the Cowboys this offseason landing either Johnny Manziel or Robert Griffin III to back-up QB Tony Romo and said, “Jerry Jones is a carnival barker. Jerry Jones likes controversy, he likes buzz. He’s looking at two guys who are Texas quarterbacks who won the Heisman Trophy. They’re going to sell tickets, they’re going to sell ads. It’s going to be a big deal” (“PTI,” ESPN, 1/6).
